FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs

General

+ How do I choose an acupuncturist?

There at two key factors to choosing an acupuncturist. They should hold a license (L.Ac.) in the state they are practicing and you should feel comfortable with them and the space in which you will be treated.

+ What do the initials stand for?

C.A., C.Ac. Certified Acupuncturist – Usually held by an M.D. or Chiropractor who has received extremely limited training. They only learn the physical act of acupuncture, but not theories that support its application.

L.Ac. Licensed Acupuncturist – Held by an acupuncturist who has received over 3,500 hours training in both the physical act of acupuncture as well as the theories behind its application and the overall Chinese medical system of healing.

M.A.O.M. Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine – The master’s degree designation received after 4+ years of study in acupuncture, adjunct therapies, Chinese herbal medicine and Eastern nutrition. (equivalent to an M.S.T.O.M.)

M.S.Ac. Master of Science in Acupuncture - The master’s degree designation received after 4 years of study of just acupuncture. This degree has no training in Chinese herbal medicine or Eastern nutrition.

M.S.T.O.M. Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine – The master’s degree designation received after 4+ years of study in acupuncture, adjunct therapies, Chinese herbal medicine and Eastern nutrition (equivalent to an M.A.O.M)

+ How early should I get to my first appointment?

If you have not competed the initial paperwork prior to your first appointment, we ask that you that you arrive 20 minutes early. Otherwise 5 minutes early is sufficient. To learn more, visit our information on
what to expect.

+ Do you accept insurance?

+ What should I bring to my first visit?

Please bring any medical information you would like us to review, as well as a form of payment. We accept cash or credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express).

+ Should I eat before?

Yes. Think of it the same way as going to the gym. You don’t want to eat right before you go but you also don’t want to come on an empty stomach.

+ I am scared of needles can I still get benefits?

Yes, we offer many adjunct therapies, as well as Chinese herbal and Eastern nutrition consultations, none of which include needles.

+ How many treatments will I need?

This all varies from patient to patient, but generally speaking the shorter time you have been suffering the shorter time it takes to recover. Likewise, the longer you have been suffering the longer it takes to recover.

+ How often will I need treatment?

This varies from patient to patient as well, but we generally recommend weekly treatment for at least the first few weeks, and then as you get some relief you can opt to spread out your visits. How often you come in is always up to you. We can often give you a better idea of how long your course of treatment will be after we see how your body responds to the first few. As with any healthy habit, acupuncture yields the best results when practiced consistently.

+ How much training do acupuncturist receive?

Our acupuncturist has completed over 3,500 hours of studies at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, one of the top acupuncture schools in the country. To learn more visit our information on
training.

Acupuncture

+ Does acupuncture hurt?

The initial prick feels like a mosquito bite. Once the needles are in, common sensations are heaviness, dull aching, tingling, or warmth. Often patients fall asleep before all the needles are in. If there is ever any discomfort we always make necessary adjustments to make our patients comfortable, as we want the treatment to be a relaxing and restorative experience.

+ How does acupuncture work?

+ Are the needles sterile?

+ Are there any side effects or risks?

Acupuncture needles are a fine, disposable (one-time use), sterile, FDA-approved medical devices. While acupuncture is a highly safe form of physical medicine with no side effects, there are a few risks. These include bruising, muscle spasms, and bleeding.

+ What do I wear?

You can wear anything as we will be asking you to remove your clothing in private and get comfy under the sheets. You will remain covered throughout the treatment. We also provide gowns should you feel more comfortable wearing one.

+ How deep do the needles go?

The depth of the needle depends on the location on the body, the condition being treated, and the patient.

+ Where do you put the needles?

There are over 400+ acupuncture points all over the body and we apply needles to various locations based on our treatment plan, but most common areas include the limbs, abdomen, back and ears.

+ How will I know it is working?

You should feel better and start noticing changes in your sleep, your energy, your poo and many others aspects in your life specifically related to the reason you are seeking treatment. To learn more visit our information on the
benefits
of acupuncture.

Chinese Herbal Medicine & Eastern Nutrition

+ Can I get herbs at the health food store?

No, professional grade Chinese herbs are only sold to licensed practitioners. To learn more please visit our information on herbal safety.

+ How long will I have to take herbs?

Similar to acupuncture this varies from patient to patient. We can often give you a better idea of how long your course of treatment will be after we see how your body responds to the formulas. How long you take them is always up to you. As with any healthy habit, Chinese herbal medicine yields the best results when taken regularly.

+ Are the Chinese herbs safe?

+ Do I have to completely change my diet?

No, we make suggestions based on our analysis of your Chinese medical diagnosis. And we work with you to make adjustments you are open to and comfortable with. To learn more visit our information on Eastern nutrition.

+ Do I have to eat weird foods?

No, a lot of the foods are foods you are probably already eating. We just make recommendations on when to eat what based on our analysis and your Chinese medical diagnosis. To learn more visit our information on Eastern nutrition.